News Release

MnDOT awards $2 million in Safe Routes to School grants

Funding supports safe travel for students to get to school

ST. PAUL, Minn. – More than 60 Minnesota schools will receive a share of $2 million in state and federally funded Safe Routes to Schools grants to support and help students walk or bicycle to and from school safely, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

“Each year, more schools are becoming part of the Safe Routes to School program, which increases opportunities for children to walk and bike to school,” said MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle.

“Safe bicycle and pedestrian access has many benefits, including easing congestion around schools and reducing school transportation costs. Biking and walking also provides a chance for physical activity, which improves health and supports academic achievement.”

Grants were awarded in two categories. Infrastructure grants were given to schools to support projects identified through planning efforts with cities and counties. Planning grants were awarded to schools to analyze existing conditions for walking and biking, gather public input and identify potential solutions.

These schools were awarded infrastructure funds to partner with their sponsors to implement projects:

Cass Lake-Bena School, Cass County - $168,538 for a trail connection to the school from Highway 371.